Cattistock is not the first place that comes to mind when you are planning a meal out, but it certainly came up trumps for us. The village is so picturesque that it was a joy just driving through.

The Fox and Hounds, a 16th-century inn, is the heart beating in the centre of this friendly community.

On arrival the staff were very friendly as were the locals.

There is a huge open fire, low ceilings and the lounge bar oozes character.

The menu is varied and changes daily.

We decided to try a starter of chargrilled organic asparagus, mozzarella and gremolata.

The bar was quite full, but the starter still arrived surprisingly quickly.

The asparagus was warm and crisp and complimented perfectly by the cold, soft mozzarella, garlic and herbs.

My partner fancied something a little bit different and chose roasted guinea fowl breast with lemon and thyme sauce as a main dish.

The guinea fowl was tasty and was accompanied by a subtle sauce, fabulous chips and a side of fresh and crisp garden vegetables.

For main course I decided to go for the 8oz rump steak, chips, peas, vine tomatoes and onion rings.

I asked for a medium steak and that was just how it came.

The onion rings were amazing, handmade and deliciously light and crisp, but the highlight was the fabulous chips. Large, soft centred and perfectly crisp.

As we ate we saw some beautiful looking dishes being brought out for neighbouring tables including the Fox and Hounds beefburger, a mountain of a meal, a juicy burger packed with cheese and bacon, served with those amazing chips and a salad.

My next meal at the Fox and Hounds has already been decided.

What we did not realise until after our visit was that The Fox and Hounds has been awarded ‘Best Pub’ in Dorset by Taste of Dorset Awards for the second year running.

No arguments from us! A worthy winner!

  • The Fox and Hounds, Duck Street, Cattistock DT2 0JH, telephone 01300 320444. foxandhoundsinn.com Lunch is served daily (except Mondays) from noon to 1.50pm and evening meals are served daily from 7pm to 8.50pm.
  •  This is an independent review by a reporter without the co-operation of the establishment